How To Keep Cargo Bag From Damaging License Plate LED Tail Light

Question:

I bought a hitch cargo carrier from etrailer.com E89BR I believe-24inch x 60. I also bought the light kit, Rola 20174. When I installed the lights and the accompanying brackets, the back of the light and the plug protrude into the cargo area. I also bought the etrailer cargo bag that fits inside of the cargo carrier. Im concerned that when the cargo bag is loaded, the items can shift and hit the trailer lights. Im trying to come up with an idea to protect the lights from being damaged by the cargo. Is there a method to attach the lights to the OUTSIDE of the carrier where the cargo wont be able to strike the lights? Or, is there a clever way to protect the lights from inside the carrier, with some kind of plateinch or cover? Ive included a pic of the entire setup, as well as a pic looking down at one light from above so you can see where the wiring harness encased in black cover and the back of the light push against the cargo bag. Thanks in advance for any ideas/advice.

asked by: Rob W

Expert Reply:

There is not a way to attach the Light Kit for Draw-Tite, Tow Ready, and Rola Railed Cargo Carriers, part # 20174, without it protruding into the 24x60 etrailer Cargo Carrier for 2" Hitches - Steel - Tilting - Folding - 500 lbs, part # e98874.

I do not think you should have much of a problem with this cargo carrier shifting during transport and damaging the back of your taillights. If you use the six tiedowns on the etrailer Cargo Bag w/ Mounting Straps - Water Resistant - 20 cu ft - 59" x 24" x 24". part # 988501, this bag should not move. I would recommend tying knots, with the excess straps, behind the buckle after tying the bag down to the cargo carrier. I would do this for extra security with my bike trunk rack, ensuring that it would not slip or loosen while I was transporting bikes. It should work the same way with the cargo bag. If you want to use stronger straps you could replace the existing straps with more robust tie down straps. The Erickson Ratchet Tie-Down Straps w/ S-Hooks - 1" x 10' - 300 lbs - Qty 4, part # EM01411, come to mind.

I have included a product description and a video link below.

expert reply by: Mark Smith